The NYG, aptly tagged "Asaba 2023," witnessed Delta State's triumphant performance with a total of 116 medals, reaffirming its stronghold in the games.
Team Delta's medal haul comprised 51 gold, 34 silver, and 31 bronze medals, underscoring their superiority in various disciplines.
Lagos State secured the second position with a total of 61 medals, including 21 gold, 19 silver, and 21 bronze. Edo State took the third spot with an impressive tally of 21 gold, 15 silver, and 17 bronze medals.
The resounding victory on home soil not only marks Delta State's seventh consecutive triumph but also solidifies its reputation as a powerhouse in youth sports. The state has consistently demonstrated its commitment to nurturing young talents and promoting sports excellence.
Senator John Enoh, the Minister of Sports Development, represented by Acting Director of Grassroots Sports Development, Mr. Patrick Okeke, commended the Delta State Government for its invaluable support in sports development.
He praised the National Youth Games for consistently meeting expectations and acknowledged the significant contributions of participating athletes to Nigeria's sporting achievements.
The minister also highlighted the positive impact of the games on the state's economy, emphasising the creation of direct and indirect employment opportunities within the sports value chain.
He expressed the ministry's openness to partnerships that would further enhance sports development in Nigeria and announced the identification of over 400 talented athletes from the participating states.
During the closing ceremony of the games held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori lauded Team Delta and all participating teams for their outstanding efforts.
Represented by Secretary to the State Government, Kingsley Emu, the governor commended the organisers for their dedication, leading to the event's resounding success.
Governor Oborevwori extended his congratulations to the winners and participants, acknowledging their remarkable talents, determination, and sportsmanship. He encouraged all athletes to apply the valuable lessons learned from the competition to their daily lives, emphasising the importance of preparation, discipline, focus, teamwork, and the spirit of sportsmanship.
In his closing remarks, Governor Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the organisers, including the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Delta State Sports Commission, and the Local Organising Committee, for their pivotal roles in advancing sports in the country. He commended the coaches, officials, security personnel, volunteers, and all those who contributed to the outstanding success of the 7th National Youth Games.